Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes*! It’s like a burst of summer on your plate. The fresh, vibrant flavor of the pesto paired with the sweet, caramelized roasted tomatoes creates such a delightful harmony. What I love most about this dish is how quick and easy it is to whip up—perfect for those weeknights when you just want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; I couldn’t believe how simple it was, yet every bite felt like a gourmet experience. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Ingredients for Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
- 200g pasta (your favorite type, I usually go for penne or spaghetti)
- 200g cherry tomatoes (halved to let those sweet juices flow out)
- 100g pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought, whatever makes you happy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for that lovely richness)
- Salt to taste (don’t be shy, it brings everything together!)
- Black pepper to taste (freshly cracked is the best)
- Parmesan cheese for serving (because what’s pasta without a sprinkle of cheese?)
How to Prepare Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness! Making this *pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes* is super straightforward and oh-so-rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a plate of pure joy in no time!
Preheat the Oven and Prepare Tomatoes
First things first, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). While that’s heating up, grab those cherry tomatoes, wash them, and slice them in half. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of black pepper. This will bring out their natural sweetness when roasted!
Cook the Pasta
Next, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. I usually set a timer so I don’t forget about it—nobody likes overcooked pasta! Once it’s done, drain it and set aside.
Mix and Serve
Now, it’s time to bring everything together! In a large bowl, mix the drained pasta with the pesto sauce until it’s evenly coated. Then, add in those gorgeous roasted tomatoes—don’t forget to scrape up all those tasty juices from the pan! Gently combine everything, and serve it up hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Wow, the aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table!
Tips for Success
To make your *pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes* truly shine, always use the freshest ingredients you can find—trust me, it makes a world of difference! If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of pesto based on your taste; some like it extra saucy! Also, consider adding a handful of fresh basil or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving for an extra kick of flavor. And remember, roasting the tomatoes until they’re just caramelized will enhance their sweetness. Oh, and don’t forget to save a bit of that pasta water; it’s perfect for loosening up the sauce if needed!
Variations of Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
One of the best things about *pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes* is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch it up by adding your favorite veggies—think zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for a pop of color and nutrients. Want some protein? Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make fantastic additions! For a fun twist, try using sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh ones for a deeper flavor. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this *pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes* is packed with flavor and satisfying nutrition. Based on common ingredients, you can expect approximately 450 calories, 20g of fat (including 4g of saturated fat), and 12g of protein. It also contains around 60g of carbohydrates, with 3g of fiber and 4g of sugar. This dish makes for a delightful, vegetarian meal that’s both delicious and nourishing!
FAQ About Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works great and saves time. Just make sure to pick a quality brand for the best flavor.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Easy! Just swap out regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. There are lots of delicious options available these days!
What other vegetables can I add?
You can customize this *pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes* by adding veggies like spinach, asparagus, or even peas for some extra color and nutrition. Just toss them in when you roast the tomatoes!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead and simply mix them together right before serving for a fresh, delicious meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Flavorful and satisfying, bursting with fresh ingredients
- Healthy vegetarian option that’s full of nutrients
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins
- Deliciously comforting, yet light and refreshing
For more information on the health benefits of tomatoes, check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about the nutritional value of pesto, visit this Love and Lemons page.
Print
Pesto Pasta with Roasted Tomatoes: 5 Steps to Joyful Cooking
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful dish combining pesto sauce and roasted tomatoes with pasta.
Ingredients
- 200g pasta
- 100g pesto sauce
- 200g cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Toss the tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the tomatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and mix it with the pesto sauce.
- Add the roasted tomatoes to the pasta and mix gently.
- Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Adjust the amount of pesto based on your preference.
- Fresh basil can enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: pesto pasta with roasted tomatoes
